The Vatican has welcomed a new addition to its fleet: a custom, all-electric Popemobile designed and built by Mercedes-Benz. The German automaker has delivered the first-ever electric vehicle specifically tailored for the Pope's needs, marking a significant milestone in the adoption of sustainable transportation.

The modified G-Class SUV boasts several unique features that cater to the Pope's requirements. One of the most notable changes is the use of four electric motors, one at each wheel, which enables precise control at low speeds as the vehicle navigates the Vatican grounds. Additionally, the Popemobile features a dedicated height-adjustable swiveling seat, allowing the Pope to address a wider audience during his appearances.

This collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and the Vatican is not a new partnership, however. The automaker has been building custom vehicles for the Pope for nearly a century, with a 2015 analysis by the Washington Post revealing that Mercedes-Benz had constructed approximately one-third of all Popemobiles up to that point.

Mercedes-Benz has been working with the Vatican on this project for around a year, but it wasn't the only company vying for the opportunity to electrify the Pope's ride. Now-defunct EV startup Fisker had previously claimed to be working with the Vatican on a special version of its Ocean SUV, although the validity of this claim was always questionable. Fisker ultimately filed for bankruptcy earlier this year.

The introduction of an all-electric Popemobile signals a significant shift towards sustainability in the Vatican's transportation fleet. As the world continues to transition towards cleaner energy sources and reduce its carbon footprint, this development serves as a powerful symbol of the Pope's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The implications of this partnership extend beyond the Vatican, as it sets a precedent for other organizations and governments to adopt sustainable transportation solutions. With Mercedes-Benz at the forefront of electric vehicle technology, this collaboration is likely to inspire further innovation and investment in the EV sector.

As the world watches the Pope's new electric ride make its debut, it's clear that this partnership between Mercedes-Benz and the Vatican marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.